The crossover movesupmarket.

Honda has revealed its third-generation HR-V and it looks like a stunner.

The Japanese brand will be keen to defend its position in thecompact crossover marketand this redesigned HR-V should give a good account of itself, in that role.

A colour-coded grille, which appears integrated as part of the bumper moulding, and slim headlamps, give the HR-V a very futuristic appearance. Hidden rear door handles, intricate pattern LED and a light strip connecting the taillamps, are all design details meant to give the HR-V a more upmarket look.

The HR-V silhouette also features a very distinct taper beyond the C-pillar, with a nearly flat aft window giving it the requisite Sportback profile. Customers have a choice of wheel sizes ranging from 16- to 18-inches in diameter.

Honda’s designers have not been as radical with their cabin architecture, but the new HR-V does havea 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with a conventional audio volume dial. Those quitebrilliant magic seats, one of Honda’s best ergonomic comfort and convenience components, are also fixed to the HR-V’s cabin.

Powering this new Honda crossover will be a choice of two engine configurations, both using Honda's1.5-litre petrolas their base, and broadly similar in specification to the Jazz.

A hybridized HR-V is expected to deliver 81 kW and 253 Nm, with the non-hybridized engine should be abit more powerful, at 90 kW, but significantly weaker on torque, at only 145 Nm. Final engine outputs have not been officially confirmed by Honda.

The new HR-V will only be available in all-wheel drive for hybrid powertrain customers, whilst those who opt for the conventional non-hybrid engine will have use of a CVT transmission driving the front wheels.

We have contacted Honda SA for comment on the HR-V's local introduction possibility. We will update this story when we hear back.

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